650 Landowners asked to prove ownership
Gokak, Karnataka – In Gokak taluk of Belagavi district, the Revenue Department has issued notices to around 650 landowners, asking them to submit documents proving their ownership of the land.
Background of the issue
The notices stem from claims made by the Karnataka Waqf Board over nearly 2,200 acres of land. As part of a verification drive, the Revenue Inspector has directed the landholders to furnish proof of ownership.
Concerns among residents
The notices have triggered widespread concern and anxiety among local farmers and residents. Many landowners state that they have lawfully purchased or inherited the land after due verification and have held the properties for generations. However, some are facing difficulties in producing old records and documents to establish their ownership.
Administration’s stand
Officials have clarified that the notices were issued as per the directives of the Karnataka Board of Waqf. They have described the exercise as a routine verification of land records and historical entries. No final decision has been taken yet.
Reason for the dispute
The issue is said to be linked to historical land entries and claims related to Waqf properties. As a result, land records are being reviewed once again by the Revenue Department.